How long does fentanyl stay in your system? The answer to this question is important to know for individuals consuming fentanyl, as well as medical and addiction treatment professionals.
Over the last ten or more years, fentanyl has become a pervasive and leading part of the illicit drug market in the United States and around the world.
This powerful manufactured opioid, often laced unknowingly in other drugs, has led to a surge in overdoses and fatalities. Understanding how long fentanyl is detected in the body is an important part of the overall knowledge of the this drug.
How Long Fentanyl Stays in The System
Understanding how long fentanyl remains in the body is important for both medical professionals and individuals potentially taking it.
The detection period for fentanyl in the body fluctuates based on various factors.
While it may leave the bloodstream relatively quickly, it can linger in other parts of the body for an extended period of time.
Factors that Influence Fentanyl Detection Times in Your System
Fentanyl detection times in body fluids vary depending on the method of administration and the type of fluid tested. Here are some key findings on the factors that come into play:
This knowledge is not only crucial for health and safety reasons but also for understanding the importance of interventions such as an addiction treatment setting where fentanyl use is a concern.
Detection of Fentanyl in Drug Tests
Fentanyl, due to its potent nature and high risk of addiction and overdose, is a substance that is frequently tested for in various drug screening methods. The type of drug test used can significantly impact the detection window and the reliability of identifying fentanyl use.
Fentanyl Detection in Blood Tests
Blood tests offer a quick way to detect the presence of Fentanyl, but their detection window is quite short, typically up to 24 hours after use.
This method is most effective in acute medical settings or soon after suspected use.
Fentanyl Detection in Urine Tests
Urine testing is the most common method for detecting Fentanyl and its metabolites.
It can identify the drug for up to seventy-two hours post-use, making it useful for medical and legal screenings.
Fentanyl Detection in Hair Follicle Test
Hair tests provide the longest detection window.
Fentanyl can be traced in hair for up to three months after use, offering a detailed view of a person’s drug history.
This method is less common due to its cost and time to obtain results.
Fentanyl Detection in Saliva Tests
Saliva tests are less invasive and can detect Fentanyl soon after use, generally within minutes to an hour.
However, their detection window is relatively short, similar to blood tests.
Each choice of test tends to depend on each situation and the urgency of the context of the situation.
For instance, in emergency medical scenarios, blood tests may be preferred, while urine tests are commonly used in rehabilitation settings, like rehab for fentanyl addiction.
Each testing method has advantages and limitations, making it important to select the right one based on the specific need and timeframe for fentanyl use.
Visual Table of Fentanyl Detection Windows
How Fentanyl Moves Through the Body
Researchers looked at how fentanyl moved in the bodies of 7 healthy men who were given a specific dose. They checked the men’s blood and urine for fentanyl and other related substances.
They found that the level of fentanyl in the blood dropped quickly, and within an hour, almost all of it was gone from the blood. However, getting rid of fentanyl completely from the body took much longer. This is because fentanyl moves from different parts of the body back into the blood, where it is then broken down and eliminated, mostly in urine and feces.2
Even though most of the fentanyl was gone from the blood quickly, it took about 3 days to get most of it out of the body. Also, the amount of fentanyl in the blood went up and down during this time.
Detecting Fentanyl After Death
Fentanyl can still be found in a person’s body for up to two weeks3 after the person fatally overdoses.
This is because fentanyl and the substances it turns into in the body can stay in different parts of the body, like blood and organs, for a long time.
Scientists use special equipment to find even tiny amounts of fentanyl in the body after someone has passed away. This is important to help figure out what caused the death and to help with efforts to deal with the problem of people using too much fentanyl.
Treatment and Resources
Treatment for Fentanyl addiction typically involves a combination of medical and therapeutic interventions, along with access to various resources.
Detoxification
This initial phase is intimidating but necessary, cleansing the body of opioids under medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
Rehabilitation Programs
This can vary, whether it be inpatient or residential treatment for fentanyl or outpatient, as well as therapy, counseling, and support to address the psychological aspects of addiction.
Medically Assisted Fentanyl Detox
Medications like buprenorphine are used by physicians during fentanyl detox to manage withdrawal symptoms, combined with counseling and behavioral therapies.
Support Groups
Groups like Narcotics Anonymous provide peer support and a sense of community for those in recovery.
Fentanyl is a really dangerous addiction and shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Cornerstone Healing Center is a fentanyl treatment program that can help you begin the process of recovery from fentanyl addiction.
If you or someone you care about is facing fentanyl addiction and/or mental health challenges, we encourage you to contact us. We also specialize in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Get Help for Fentanyl Abuse Today
Fentanyl, a highly potent drug, poses significant risks due to its powerful effects and potential for addiction.
The risks extend from short-term health impacts to severe long-term consequences, including a high potential for fatal overdoses.
Equally important is knowing where to seek help.
Cornerstone Healing Center offers specialized rehab for Fentanyl abuse, providing a supportive environment for overcoming addiction.
Taking the first step towards recovery is crucial.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Fentanyl abuse, don’t hesitate to seek help.
Our treatment facility is grounded in evidence-based practices and specializes in dual diagnosis, promoting long-term recovery by addressing underlying issues.
